The Supreme Court has held that neighbours of the husband's family -- who had apparently facilitated the marriage -- cannot be implicated for harassment or cruelty for dowry under the Indian Penal Code's Section 498A.
A bench of Justices Aniruddha Bose and Sanjay Kumar quashed the summoning order against the appellants -the neighbours - so far as the allegation of commission of offence under Section 498A IPC was concerned.
Before the apex court, it was argued that the neighbours are not relatives of the husband and hence they cannot be implicated in any offence punishable under Section 498A.
Earlier, the Uttarakhand High Court had dismissed the petition of the appellants for quashing the summoning order issued by the court of the judicial magistrate.
In its order, the top court clarified that so far as other offences are concerned, the prosecution of the appellants shall proceed in accordance with law.
A complaint was lodged against appellants and others under Sections 498A, 323, 504, 506 of the IPC and the provisions of the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961.
PM Modi holds talks with Elon Musk on closer India-US ties in technology, innovation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a discussion with Tesla CEO Elon Musk on a range of topics, including the immense potential for collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation.
Nine women among 22 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
Security forces in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh have achieved a significant breakthrough with 22 Maoists, including nine women, surrendering on Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to combat Maoism, officials said.
Focus on protecting rights of own minorities: India slams B'desh on Bengal violence comment
The comments from Dhaka came in the wake of protests against the Waqf(Amendment) Act, during which Bangladesh urged Indian authorities to ensure the safety of the minority Muslim population in the state.
Guru Tegh Bahadur's sacrifice inspires society to protect their faith for eternity: HM Shah on Prakash Parv
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday paid tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh guru, on his birth anniversary and emphasised the enduring legacy of his teachings and sacrifices.
May the spirit of peace and togetherness always prevail: PM Modi on Good Friday
On Good Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and urged people to embrace kindness and compassion, praying that the spirit of peace and togetherness always prevails.
HC asks Delhi govt, MCD to act against illegal encroachments on Yamuna Pusta Road
The Delhi High Court has ordered the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the city government to act against illegal encroachments prevailing along the Yamuna Pusta Road, which stretches from Wazirabad to Hiranki and serves as a crucial arterial route for residents and commuters.
2 killed, 6 injured in US university shooting
Two people were killed and six others were injured after an active shooter opened fire on the Florida State University (FSU) campus in Tallahassee on Thursday, law enforcement said at a news conference.
DoNER Minister bats for accelerating the Special Economic Zone in Manipur
Union Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Thursday directed officials to accelerate the pace of key infrastructure projects, including universities, Information Technology and Special Economic Zone in Manipur, mental, maternity and child hospital, officials said.